The Need for Medical Coding Jobs is on the Rise

The demand for medical coders, also referred to as medical coding specialists, or health information technicians, is expected to grow by 22 percent from 2012 to 2022 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is exciting news for those interested in medical coding careers because the projected increased demand for medical coders is 11% higher, double the demand, of most other occupations.

Medical coders review patient records prior to insurance companies receiving the information for reimbursement to be sure the patients’ information is accurate, complete, and properly coded and categorized. Read more about medical coding careers here.

Medical coding professionals are in high demand partially due to the increased use of electronic health records, which is growing because of Federal legislation incentives. Additionally, as our population continues to live longer there is an increased demand for health services.

Increased health services equate to an increased need for medical coding specialist jobs because the healthcare provider is required to document all services provided. This documentation process ensures accuracy, proper categorization of patients’ medical records, and results in a claim for payment. Medical coders, many of whom specialize in a particular area of healthcare service, perform the documentation process.